Axe ’Em, Jacks!
For incoming and current F and J student visa holders
The University of Texas System Rule 50402 requires all F and J student visa holders to be automatically enrolled in the UT System Student Health Insurance Program. International students are automatically enrolled in this medical insurance plan for each term in which they are registered for SFA courses. There are two insurance periods: Fall and spring/summer.
Upon completion of their academic program, students are no longer automatically enrolled in UT SHIP. Health insurance is optional for students who remain in the U.S. after graduation, such as Optional Practical Training, and becomes their responsibility to enroll in an insurance plan of their choice.
2023-24 health insurance policy information
Health insurance coverage for the 2023-24 year is provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, with enrollment information managed by Academic HealthPlans, Inc.
Premium rates
View the 2023-24 premium rates.
Student coverage: Your medical premium rate will be charged directly to your eBill prior to the start of fall and spring terms. Students registered for SFA courses in the spring term will have coverage through the summer, regardless of summer class registration.
- Fall 2023 term: $1,306
- Spring/summer 2024 term: $2,132
Spouse/Child coverage: Premium rates are paid directly to Academic HealthPlans. View the insuring dependents section for enrollment requirements.
Insuring dependents
If you are accompanied by your spouse and/or child(ren), you must purchase medical coverage for them. You may add dependents to your UT SHIP through online enrollment. Premium rates are paid directly to Academic HealthPlans.
Dental coverage
You may purchase optional dental coverage by adding this coverage to your UT SHIP through online enrollment. Premium rates are paid directly to Academic HealthPlans.
Exemptions and waivers
Student-athlete exemption
Student athletes who will receive coverage through SFA Athletics are exempt from enrolling in UT SHIP.
Waiving UT SHIP
All F and J student visa holders attending SFA are automatically enrolled in the program and will incur a fee on their eBill upon SFA class registration. However, you may use an alternative insurance policy by following Academic HealthPlan's waiver process. Students with an approved waiver will receive a refund of the charge on their student account.
Your alternative medical insurance policy must meet all criteria and the correct documents must be filed during the waiver period.
Waiver periods
- Fall 2023 term: July 28 - Sept. 28, 2023
- Spring/summer 2024 term: Dec. 1, 2023 - Feb. 1, 2024
Important: Approvals by Academic HealthPlan for a waiver are valid only during the semester for which you applied. You must show proof of adequate alternate coverage each term to Academic HealthPlan.
Visit sfasu.myahpcare.com for complete plan details and to access your account.